NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: August 20, 2026, 8:11 AM ET

Injuries Mount Across the NFL

Higgins' ACL tear sidelines the Texans' second-year wideout for the entire season after the injury occurred during a joint practice with the Raiders. Tyler Biadasz is out indefinitely for the Chargers after sustaining ACL damage and additional left knee injuries, sources confirmed. Jer'Zhan Newton underwent surgery to repair a torn pectoral muscle, keeping the Commanders' defensive lineman sidelined indefinitely. Alvin Kamara faces a minimum four-week absence with a sprained MCL, while Tyler Warren left Colts joint practice with a groin injury and did not return. Dae'Quan Wright, and Wydett Williams all received temporary restraining orders granting them a fifth year of eligibility after signing with NFL teams this summer.

Contract Extensions and Trades

Vita Vea and the Buccaneers agreed to a one-year extension guaranteeing the two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle $30 million, ending his holdout. The Giants traded Daniel Faalele to the Jaguars in exchange for a sixth-round pick in 2027, bolstering Jacksonville's offensive line depth. Najee Harris signed a one-year deal with the Giants, vowing he has "a lot to prove" in New York. Trevon Diggs plans to sign a one-year deal with the Seahawks, citing former teammates as his reason for choosing Seattle. Von Miller joined the Cowboys on a one-year contract at age, declaring "I'm here to win" and aiming for a Super Bowl with Dallas.

Quarterback Battles Intensify

Shedeur Sanders remains unfazed by Cleveland's quarterback competition, stating he feels no pressure ahead of joint practice with the Bills and his upcoming start. The Steelers will start Will Howard against the Jets in preseason, with fourth-round pick Drew Allar serving as backup. Baker Mayfield brushed off critics, predicting Tampa Bay will "shock a lot of people this year" ahead of the Bucs' preseason game against the Chiefs. A.J. Brown expressed nothing but "love" for the Eagles and former teammate Jalen Hurts following joint practices between New England and Philadelphia.

Training Camp Storylines

Colston Loveland continues to emerge as a fantasy star for the Bears, making a name for himself on and off the field in his second NFL season. Bryce Young and Adam Theilen put on a show during Panthers camp in Jacksonville, generating positive buzz around Carolina's revamped receiving corps. Terence Steele seeks consistency at right tackle while George Pickens continues to shine at wide receiver during Cowboys training camp. Puka Nacua and Jeremiyah Love dropped in fantasy draft boards following recent injury news, shaking up draft strategies league-wide.

Coaching and Front Office Moves

Ben Johnson's Bears offense proves to be much more than just Caleb Williams, with the offensive system showcasing depth beyond its star quarterback. Kyle Shanahan dismissed speculation that Christian McCaffrey is holding out for a new contract, emphasizing the team is simply being cautious with its star running back. Calais Campbell broke his silence regarding his family tragedy, asking for continued prayers and support after addressing the death of his mother and his brother's murder charge publicly.

Offseason and League News

Roger Goodell stated there is "no doubt" that an NFL team based outside the United States is inevitable, signaling the league's continued international expansion plans. The Patriots enter 2026 as a team "being hunted," with much roster turnover this offseason and a focus on identity to combat a harder schedule. Devin Lloyd wears the green dot as a badge of honor for the Panthers' defense, serving as the primary communicator in the huddle and leading Carolina's young linebackers.

Fantasy Football Impact

Liz Loza identified six "drumbeat" players generating excitement who could turn into league winners, led by Justin Herbert, and Blake Corum. Puka Nacua's recent injury news caused him to drop in fantasy draft boards, while Javonte Williams also fell after potential suspension concerns. The latest mock draft reflects how injury updates and suspension news continue to reshape fantasy landscapes heading into the regular season.

Historical Context

ESPN's countdown to Super Bowl LXI features a ranking of the best NFL teams that fell short of reaching the big game, including the 2023 Ravens among the 16 historic near misses. These teams represent some of the most dominant regular season performances that ultimately couldn't capture football's ultimate prize, providing perspective on how thin the margin between excellence and heartbreak can be in the NFL.